South Africa is a beautiful country with many attractions and scenic routes to explore. But it also has some of the most dangerous roads in the world, with high rates of fatalities and injuries every year. According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the top 10 roads and areas with the highest number of deaths nationally are:
- In Limpopo, on the R71 near Mankweng, the R37 in Mecklenburg and the N1 near Naboomspruit (also known as Mookgophong).
- In Mpumalanga, on the R573 (known as Moloto Road) and the N4 near Nelspruit.
- In the Eastern Cape, on the N2 near Mount Ayliff and Dutywa.
- In KwaZulu Natal, on the N2 near Umkhomazi and Pongola.
- In the Free State, on the N3 near Harrismith.
These roads are notorious for their poor conditions, high traffic volumes, reckless driving and speeding. If you’re planning to travel on these roads or any other road in South Africa, you need to be extra cautious and prepared.
Here are some tips from King Price Insurance on how to stay safe on South Africa’s most dangerous roads:
- Check your car’s roadworthiness
Before you embark on your journey, make sure that your car is in good condition and has all the necessary safety features. Check your tyres, brakes, lights, indicators, windscreen wipers, steering, and exhaust system. If you notice any faults, get them fixed as soon as possible. You don’t want to break down or cause an accident on a dangerous road.
- Plan your route and time your journey
Use a GPS navigation tool to plan your trip. Avoid travelling at night, in bad weather, or during peak hours. Choose the safest and shortest route possible and avoid roads that are known to be hazardous. If you have to travel on a dangerous road, be alert and drive defensively. Give yourself enough time to reach your destination and take regular breaks to rest and stretch.
- Obey the rules of the road and the speed limit
Human error is the most common cause of accidents on South Africa’s roads. Don’t drink and drive, don’t text and drive, don’t overtake on blind spots or solid lines, and don’t tailgate or cut off other drivers. Respect the rights and responsibilities of other road users and follow the signs and signals. Stick to the speed limit and adjust your speed according to the road and weather conditions. Speeding may save time, but it also increases your risk of losing control, crashing, or getting a fine.
- Wear your seat belt and secure your passengers
Wearing a seat belt isn’t only the law but also the best way to protect yourself and your passengers in case of a collision. Make sure that everyone in your car is buckled up and that children under 12 are in the back seat with appropriate child restraints or booster seats. Don’t overload your car, and don’t carry any passengers or cargo that aren’t properly secured. Loose objects can become projectiles in an accident and cause serious injuries or damage.
- Keep your valuables out of sight and lock your doors
South Africa has a high rate of crime, and some roads are more prone to robberies, hi-jackings, and smash-and-grabs. Don’t leave your valuables, such as your phone, wallet, laptop, or luggage, visible in your car. Lock them in your boot or take them with you when you stop. Lock your doors and windows when you drive and be wary of strangers approaching you or your car.
- Have emergency contacts and insurance
No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen. That’s why you need to have emergency contacts and insurance. Save the numbers of the police, ambulance, fire brigade, and roadside assistance on your phone and have them handy in case of an emergency. Also, make sure that you have adequate insurance for your car. King Price Insurance offers comprehensive and affordable car insurance that covers you for theft, fire, accidental damage, and third-party liability. You can also add optional extras, such as car hire and emergency assist, to suit your needs and budget.
We hope these tips will help you stay safe and enjoy your travels on South Africa’s most dangerous roads. Remember, prevention is better than cure, and insurance is better than regret. With King Price Insurance, you can enjoy peace of mind and hassle-free claims wherever the road leads you. For a commitment-free quote, simply click here or WhatsApp us on 0860 50 50 50.
Psst… This blog provides general info only, and doesn’t count as financial or product advice from King Price or our legal and compliance experts. Remember, all our premiums are risk-profile-dependent, and T’s and C’s apply. Our most up-to-date KPPD (policy wording) can always be found here.
Our website T’s and C’s can be found here.
